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Lemon Chicken Pasta: A Zesty, Comforting Dish for Any Occasion

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Some meals just feel like a warm hug, and this Lemon Chicken Pasta is one of them. The fresh, zesty lemon combined with juicy chicken, garlic, and Parmesan creates a perfect balance of flavors. I first made this dish on a busy evening, craving something comforting but quick. The aroma of garlic and lemon filled my kitchen, and I knew I had found a new favorite. Best of all, it’s ready in just 25 minutes! Let’s bring some brightness to your plate with this easy, flavorful dish.

Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts (boneless and skinless, about 1 lb)
  • Pasta (any shape you prefer, 8 oz, such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
  • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Lemon (zested and juiced, about 1 lemon)
  • Chicken Broth (1/2 cup)
  • Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, freshly grated)
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta:
    • Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Undercook it by a minute or so to ensure it doesn’t become too soft when combined with the sauce later. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—it will help thicken the sauce.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Then, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
  4. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
    • Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference. Add the chicken back into the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding a little pasta water at a time to help bring the sauce together and coat the pasta evenly.
  5. Finish the Dish:
    • Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan over the pasta and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    • If you’d like, top with some freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors!

Notes

  • Creamier Sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a little bit of heavy cream or milk after adding the chicken broth.
  • Make Ahead: You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it, though the pasta may absorb more of the sauce. If reheating, consider adding a little more broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: http://recipes.swedishinarabic.net/lemon-chicken-pasta-a-zesty-comforting-dish-for-any-occasion/